Aralia Polyscias

Aralia is a genus of woody shrubs or small trees that are native to Tropical Africa, Southeast Asia, parts of Australia, and the Pacific Islands. It has 181 accepted species, and they are frequently used for ornamental purposes, but they also have some medicinal value. The genus name, Polyscias, is derived from the Greek words polys, meaning "many" and from skias, meaning "shade or umbrella." This references the leaves that create a canopy-like appearance. This genus is a member of the ivy family (Araliaceae). 

These plants prefer full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained, acidic, organically rich soil. They are winter hardy in USDA Zones 11 to 12. In temperate climates such as North Carolina, these plant are best grown as a houseplant. Indoors, these plants prefer indirect bright sun or partial shade. Direct sunlight should be avoided for extended periods. These plants will thrive in a potting mix that includes peat and sand. Good drainage is required, and it is best to allow the soil to dry out between deep watering; however,  avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to become too dry.  Being a tropical plant, high humidity is beneficial.  Consider misting on a regular basis or place the plant container on a tray of wet pebbles. Room temperatures should not drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Pruning the tips of the branches will encourage more dense foliage and additional branching. These plants can be propagated by stem cuttings. 

An evergreen shrub or small tree that has slender, upright branches. These woody plants have glossy, tri-folate or compound leaves that may be delicate, lacy to serrate margins, and they are usually clustered at the end of the branches. The leaf colors are various shades of green and some have cream to gold variegations. The flowers are terminal and appear as panicles of umbels. Outside of the tropics, this plant rarely blooms. The flowers produce fruits that are globose drupes.

Plants of this genus may be used as a tropical ornamental houseplants and are also suitable for bonsai. In warmer climates, these plants can used as an accent plant or hedge.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor for aphids, scale, mealybugs, whiteflies, and nematodes. Over moist soil may cause root rot.  Too dry soil may attract mites. Leaf drop can occur from inadequate humidity.

All parts of these plant are poisonous to humans and pets, if ingested. Skin irritation can also occur. Keep these plants out of the reach of children and pets and wear protective gloves when handling them.